A bill that was created to help prevent nursing home abuse throughout Oklahoma has officially not made it to committee. According to a News 9 report, the fight to pass House Bill 2901 is not over. Many believe that Oklahoma’s reputation as having some of the worst nursing homes in the country is well earned and that more needs to be done to protect our elderly.
The comprehensive bill that has been put on hold would require nursing homes to increase staffing levels. The bill would also result in more medical director oversight and require the state to interview elderly victims, their family members, and the accused during any investigation of wrongdoing. It is unclear when and if the bill will be passed and what adjustments will be made before it comes up for a vote.
In the meantime, a significant number of Oklahoma nursing home residents are at risk for inadequate care and abuse. According to A Perfect Cause, a local advocacy group, more than 3,500 Oklahomans die each year from nursing home abuse and neglect. A recent study for Families for Better Care went so far as to give Oklahoma a failing grade for nursing home care. In that study, the nonprofit elder advocacy group found Oklahoma nursing homes were among the worst in the country. Oklahoma had a high rate of incidents and a low rating for the amount of time each resident received with a professional care provider.
There is a risk that these dangerous conditions will continue if lawmakers delay passing nursing home reform. In the meantime, there are steps you can take to protect your loved one. Make sure you visit often and become familiar with the staff. Ask questions about your loved one’s health and check for signs of abuse and neglect when you are there. If you loved one has any injuries, request to see his or her medical records. If you suspect that your loved one has been abused or neglected, please contact an experienced Oklahoma nursing home lawyer to obtain more information about pursuing your legal rights.
